POSITIVE EDUCATION

Positive Education is a whole school approach to teaching and learning that employs the science of Positive Psychology. Positive Psychology is the scientific study of the strengths and virtues that enable individuals and communities to thrive. The Geelong Grammar School Model of Positive Education targets six wellbeing domains: positive emotions, positive engagement, positive accomplishment, positive purpose, positive relationships and positive health.

Years 5 and 6

In Years 5 and 6, Positive Education is timetabled once a week, as well as being integrated through all aspects of the curriculum. Students develop a greater understanding of the 24 character strengths and develop an awareness of their own strengths and those of others. Specific mindfulness sessions are conducted throughout the year and the skills and coping strategies are incorporated into classroom practice. Goal setting and reflection are an integral part of the beginning and end of every term as students are encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning and to develop self-efficacy. In the development of interpersonal skills there is a focus on love, forgiveness, hope, kindness, teamwork, gratitude and humour.

Year 7

In Year 7, students learn more about their signature character strengths and how to engage the 24 character strengths and others in daily life. Students learn about the importance of kindness, empathy and compassion in cultivating positive relationships and how to develop the strengths of leadership and teamwork. Key to engendering resilience in students is developing flexible thinking, as well as identifying and challenging unhealthy thoughts, which is also a focus in Year 7 Positive Education. Students further develop their ability to set meaningful and realistic goals, cultivate a growth mindset and learn about the underlying importance of intrinsic motivation, self-control and curiosity to engagement and accomplishment. Finally, students identify core values and learn about the importance of meaning in life as part of the broader positive purpose domain.
This is not a formally assessed subject and there is no official written report.

Year 8

In Year 8, students begin the year by examining the concept of 'flourishing', which we define as ‘doing good and feeling good’. Students engage in activities which are designed to identify and celebrate what makes them unique and helps engender a sense of self awareness and self-confidence. Students learn that optimism is not a fixed trait, but can be cultivated. They practice strategies which can assist with developing this mindset and which can assist with responding to adversity with resilience. As well as continuing to build on the core components of positive relationships, positive engagement and positive accomplishment; students begin to shift their focus to the broader Geelong community and how they can contribute, leaving their legacy before their transition to Corio.
This is not a formally assessed subject and there is no official written report.